Mini Tummy Tuck in Houston, TX

Tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) is a cosmetic surgery in which excess fat and skin are removed from the abdomen to help patients achieve a stronger, slimmer, more contoured midsection. However, not every patient requires a full tummy tuck procedure. For women and men with minimal fat and sagging skin in the midsection, mini tummy tuck surgery can help them achieve their cosmetic goals with generally a quicker recovery and a shorter scar.

Am I a Candidate for a Mini Tummy Tuck?

Women and men who want to achieve one or more of the following objectives may be ideal candidates for mini tummy tuck surgery:

Get rid of excess fat in the lower abdomen (including a pooch)
Achieve a more contoured midsection
Improve confidence
Achieve a more youthful body aesthetic

Ideal candidates are non-smoking women and men, who are in good overall health and have realistic expectations for their results.

How Is a Mini Tummy Tuck Performed?

While a full True Form Tummy Tuck® requires an incision that stretches from hip to hip and addresses concerns in the entire abdomen, a mini tummy tuck targets issues in the lower abdomen (below the belly button).

Anesthesia will be used during your mini tummy tuck procedure so that you do not feel any pain or discomfort. After the anesthesia is administered, an incision will be made in the lower abdomen. The resulting scar can be concealed beneath many underwear and two-piece swimsuit styles.

The abdominal skin and tissue will then be separated from the abdominal muscle, and internal progressive tension sutures will be used to advance the skin. This technique prevents the need for uncomfortable drains and helps lessen recovery time. Next, liposuction will be used to remove fat from the lower abdomen. Excess and sagging skin will be carefully trimmed away from the lower abdominal area, and the incision will be sutured and sealed with a protective skin glue.

What Can I Expect With My Mini Tummy Tuck Recovery?

Swelling, bruising, and some discomfort are expected during the mini tummy tuck recovery period; however, these side effects will all dissipate over time. It is important to allow the body plenty of time to rest after the procedure to help speed up recovery and achieve optimal results.

Most patients can return to work 10 days after a mini tummy tuck. It is important to follow Dr. Patronella’s post-surgical instructions and contact him if you have any questions or concerns during your recovery.

Learn more about tummy tuck recovery.

What Results Can I Expect After My Mini Tummy Tuck?

A mini tummy tuck can offer long-lasting physical and psychological results. Not only can you expect a slimmer and more defined tummy, but you can also look forward to feeling more comfortable with how you look. The results from your mini tummy tuck can allow you to wear clothing you’ve always wanted and participate in more of your favorite activities. A balanced diet and consistent exercise can help to prolong your results so that you can look and feel great for years to come.

How Much Is Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery in Houston, TX?

The price of any plastic surgery procedure varies with each patient, your Houston mini tummy tuck is no different. This is due largely to the fact that not every patient requires the same correction. At your consultation, you will be provided with a cost estimate for your specific procedure.

You can learn more about mini tummy tuck cost here.

What Are Some Frequently Asked Questions About Mini Tummy Tuck?

How long will my mini tummy tuck procedure take?

While the exact procedure time of mini tummy tuck surgery varies with each patient, depending on the extensiveness of the procedure, most mini tummy tucks take one to two hours to perform.

Is there any pain during a mini tummy tuck?

Because anesthesia is used, you will not feel any pain during your procedure. However, you will likely experience some soreness and even pain during the first days of your mini tummy tuck recovery. Pain medication can be taken to alleviate any pain during the recovery period. In addition, Dr. Patronella frequently recommends EXPAREL®, a long-acting anesthetic, that he can inject during the procedure.

Can I combine a mini tummy tuck with other procedures?

Absolutely. Many women and men choose to combine their mini tummy tuck with other procedures to achieve a more complete transformation to their bodies.

Some of the most common procedures to combine a mini tummy tuck with include:

When will I see my mini tummy tuck results?

You will see immediate improvements to the look of your midsection after your mini tummy tuck. As your body heals, the full results will be apparent in two to three months.